As a football fan, I'm picky about where I'm going to catch the next game. There has to be a perfect combination of good food, quality beer, a welcoming atmosphere, and, of course, an impressive audio/video system. After spending the better part of the season testing out some local bars and restaurants, I think I've finally found my new Sunday night hangout.

On Monday, December 7th, the much anticipated Hickory Tavern Grill and Raw Bar made their presence in Biltmore Park Town Square official. With a menu featuring delicious game night cuisine with gourmet twists, Hickory Tavern promises to be a popular gathering spot for football fanatics. You'll be impressed, too, by the restaurant's big screen TV's that surround a large portion of the seating area, ensuring that you'll have a good vantage point for catching the next big play.

Of course, Hickory Tavern also knows that that isn't the only niche they can fill. The new restaurant is proving to be versatile and is also welcoming to families, casual business lunches, and even those seeking to celebrate special occasions. Patrons with discriminating taste buds won't be disappointed either because every menu item from the burgers and salads to the oysters and crab cakes promise to satisfy. Hickory Tavern plays off of guests' other senses, too, with an atmosphere marked by warm colors, low lighting, and an open and expansive floor plan. The design and decor add to the neighborhood environment and contribute to the feeling that the restaurant has been serving Asheville diners for years.

So, if you haven't already, test out the new restaurant over the weekend with your friends and family, and warm up with Hickory Tavern's inviting menu. For more information about Hickory Tavern Grill and Raw Bar, visit their website at www.thehickorytavern.com